They discussed bilateral relations between Ireland and Britain, noting the success of the State visit to Ireland last year by Her Majesty the Queen. They agreed to build on this success by work in 2012 to deepen economic partnership. The Prime Minister congratulated the Taoiseach on the steps which Ireland is taking to implement its fiscal programme and the progress in returning Ireland’s deficit to sustainable levels.

They discussed Northern Ireland, and reiterated their commitment to working closely together to ensure safety and prosperity there, including through close cross-border cooperation.

The Prime Minister and the Taoiseach also discussed the eurozone and the European economy. They agreed on the urgent need to resolve the current eurozone debt crisis and the priority of further EU-wide steps to stimulate growth and competitiveness. Looking ahead to the European Council meeting on 30 January, they stressed the importance of putting growth and jobs at the top of the EU agenda, and proposals to extend the single market.

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